Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Differential Carrier: Installation
- Position the differential assembly in the axle housing.
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NOTE: Match the positioning of the mating letters on the bearing caps and the differential housing.
Install the bearing caps and the bolts.
Torque: 80 lb.ft (108 Nm)
- Using the general equipment, measure the backlash at 3 equally spaced points.
- The backlash must be within the specifications and cannot vary more than 0.05 mm (0.002 in) between points checked.
- Make the necessary corrections by moving shims from one side of the differential case to the other, until the correct backlash adjustment is achieved.
- Correct for low backlash by moving the ring gear away from the pinion.
- Correct for high backlash by moving the ring gear toward the pinion.
Use the General Equipment: Dial Indicator
- Apply a new continuous bead of sealant to the differential housing cover as shown in illustration.
Material: Motorcraft® Silicone Gasket and Sealant / TA-30 (WSE-M4G323-A4)
- Install the differential cover and differential cover bolts.
Torque: 45 lb.ft (61 Nm)
- Attach the RH outer tie rod end and drag link to the wheel knuckle and install the new tie rod end nut.
Torque: 85 lb.ft (115 Nm)
- Install the RH outer tie-rod end retainer cap and cotter pin.
- Install the axle shafts and seals. REFER to: Axle Shaft Seal .
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.